What Is Poly Dacron Rope?

Poly Dacron rope is made from polypropylene and Dacron plastic fibres. Fibres are twisted into strands and then the strands are braided into various types of rope. Dacron is a trademark of Dupont dating to 1950 when a plant in Seaford, Delaware starting producing Dacron fibre using new nylon technology. "Poly" is a generic term for polymer strands composed of long-chain polymers known as polypropylene.

Other People Are Reading

Dacron

Dacron is often used in sail making and the fibres are used in making ropes. Dacron and polyester are recyclable, with the recycling code "1." Polyester is the familiar plastic polymer that is used to make clothing and almost anything else that can be made with cloth such as tents, parachutes and others. Polyester fibres are extremely strong and durable. Polyester resists water and dries quickly. Once formed, polyester tends to retain its shape without warping, wrinkling or creasing. It is used extensively in making rope for various uses.

Poly Dacron is used for a wide variety of marine applications. (motor boat. power boat image by L. Shat from Fotolia.com)

Polypropylene

Polypropylene or "poly" is the lightest-weight synthetic fibre used in making ropes. Pure poly ropes actually float. However, poly is only about 1/3 as strong as polythene and tends to degrade faster in sunlight. Poly is one of the least-expensive synthetic fibres used for making rope.

Pure poly rope floats and is useful for fishing nets. (floats and rope image by Leslie Batchelder from Fotolia.com)

Rope

Polyester and Dacron fibres are twisted into strands or yarn. Then strands are combined to form cords. The cords are braided into ropes of various types. Twisted ropes, like typical three-strand rope, are formed by coiling strands in the same direction. Braided rope comes in three basic types. Diamond braid without a core is called hollow braid. Other types include diamond braid with a core, and solid braid.

Poly Dacron Rope

For braided rope with a core, polypropylene is often integrated with Dacron. Dacron provides the strength in the outer braid. Polypropylene provides a lightweight core and additional strength. Using polypropylene for the core reduces weight and cost and makes the rope lighter.

Uses of Poly Dacron Rope

Poly Dacron rope is popular for a wide variety of marine uses including general boating, commercial fishing, mooring and tow lines. It is also commonly used for tent ropes, guy lines, scaffolding and for climbing and tree work.